Watching Big Wave Surfing on Oahu's North Shore
The North Shore of Oahu is home to the famous Seven Mile Miracle, a seven-mile stretch of beaches that compose the famous breaks of surfing lore: Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach.
These waves are big, sometimes as big as 30 feet, and what makes them so cool is their proximity: They're right there, just offshore, so spectators can sit on the sand and watch the surfers test their skill and courage as if they were sitting in an arena.
When these waves break, the ground can shake, and their spray can cast a mist over the Kamehameha Highway that rings that shoreline. During the winter season, you'll see the big surfwear company houses on the shore.
When is Big Surf Season
The big surf season corresponds to the winter season in the North Hemisphere. The mountainous waves that hit Hawaii's northern shores are generated thousands of miles away in the Aleutian Islands in the North Pacific (the same thing happens along the southern shores during the summer months, as winter storms rage in the South Pacific).
Interestingly, the inverse is true in the summer, with the north shores being generally calm and great for swimming.
Hawaii Surf Contests
Several major surf contests happen in Hawaii. The biggest and probably best-known is the Pipe Masters, which is held in December at the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu.
Another big surf event on the North Shore is "The Eddie," named after iconic Hawaiian waterman Eddie Aikau. This big wave contest happens at Waimea Bay, where Eddie Aikau was a lifeguard. The contest only runs when the waves are exceptionally large, a relatively rare event in Waimea. Regardless of surf contests, if Waimea Bay is breaking, try to see it, as it has lots of lore. If you are traveling to Oahu in the winter season, keep an eye on the surf report!
Winter Surf Crowds in Hawaii
When the surf is big, expect crowds and traffic along the north shore, which has a small two-lane road called Kamehameha Highway that offers access to the beaches. Parking can be a challenge, and be careful, as the County is more than happy to earn some cash off illegal parking—visitor status does not give you a pass.
Big Surf Breaks on Other Hawaiian Islands
Oahu is not the only island in Hawaii that has some famous North Shore surfing beaches. Perhaps one of the most famous spots is Peahi, commonly known as "Jaws," on Maui's North Shore. Laird Hamilton made a name at this spot.
This spot allows for mammoth waves to rise up and break, testing the mettle of the world's best surfers. However, unlike Oahu, Jaws breaks further out, meaning you watch from a promontory on the shore at some distance. Still, it's impressive to behold.
There are spots on Kauai and other places as well, each with a swell window and bottom that makes its waves unique.
Winter Visitors to Hawaii
If you are going to Hawaii during the winter months and there is a swell, make some time to go out and view the spectacle. It's a sight to behold, and everyone, young and old alike, will always remember the day they saw the famous big waves of Hawaii.
Hawaii Rentals in Winter
You may not want to stay up on the north shores of the Hawaiian Islands during the winter months because it generally means that water will be off-limits unless you're a pro surfer or body surfer. These waters can be treacherous for youngsters, with washup from waves capable of sweeping even sturdy adults off their feet. So, while this season makes for great viewing, it doesn't make for carefree days at the beach with family.
Instead, consider staying along the southern shores and accessing the placid waters. The waters of Honolulu and Kailua are calm and welcoming. On Maui, the Lahaina and Wailea-side beaches are also generally calm and welcoming. The same goes for Kauai.
Check out our winter luxury Hawaiian vacation villas today, or read more about staying on the North Shore.
